Can anyone help a guy out- just getting started

[Anonymous]

Hi, I've been "given permission" to start a model train set. I am only able to buy it in pieces each month- That's the deal. Could someone give me some tips on a moderately priced brand. My ideal set up is on a large playwood table...that I could add track onto- So are there different kinds of tracks that aren't compatible with others???

I need some beginner's advice- Also I'm aiming for an expandable set, smaller cars, enough power to make them climb clay hills, go through tunnels.

Excuse my ignorance[:D]

[ben10ben]

Ignorance excused [:)], and welcome to the forum!

In all honesty, your best bet for getting started would be to save up your money until you can afford to buy yourself a set that would have everything you need to get started. You'll save a whole lot of money this way, as well as not having the frustration of missing getting that all important piece that you didn't realize that you needed.

The best low priced sets available come from K-line( www.klinetrains.com) and Lionel( www.lionel.com ). They make some excellent sets in the $100-250 price range that should get you started quite well.

For track, most types of track can be made to work with most others. Fastrack from Lionel is the worst in this respect, as well as the most expensive. If you buy a Lionel set, see if you can get an older one with tinplate track, or ask about swapping the included fastrack for O27. The O27 is a whole lot less expensive, as well as easier to work with. The K-line track will easily mate with standard O gauge track with no added adaptor sections.

[brianel027]

Well Lionel has a couple of decent starter sets currently cataloged. And the new add on packages are a great deal as they become available. The basic Lionel NYC/Pennsy Flyer type steam engine is certainly fine for a beginner and is the right size loco for what you want to do. The new Lionel sets though come with FasTrack, with is a bit pricey and limiting as to what you can do with it on a small layout... though there are possibilities (see www.thortrains.net).

You could look on eBay for either K-Line or Lionel starter sets and ask questions here before you bid. I know there are decent brand new K-Line sets for anywhere from $125-$175. They either come with 027 track (which I personally prefer) or the newer K-Line "Snap-Track" which is compatable with normal tubular 0 guage track. There are also used sets from the MPC period of Lionel (1970-1985) that are reasonably priced -and if they've been taken care of - will get you started just fine. If you aren't sure about something, ask here first before you bid.

I'll add that 027 track has it's limitations... you won't be running some of the new larger scale sized trains. But it is affordable either brand new or used and allows for many layout ideas. Just be sure if buying used 027 track,.it's not rusted badly. You can clean it, but it's not worth the extra work.

Even some of the cheapest low end Lionel sets can be improved. Metal wheels can be ordered to replace plastic wheel sets. Plastic snap truck holders are easily replaced. And I have some of the cheapest engines Lionel ever made that now pull a dozen cars with diecast trucks with no sweat. One of 'em will even pull 20 cars (though I don't run like that normally). I'm just saying that even low end stuff can be improved by a do-it-yourself type of person.

The RMT "Beep" being made now is certainly a respectable switcher, reasonably priced and available in loads of road names. Williams Trains also makes a center cab switcher and a GP9, available in lots of road names and also reasonably priced - as far as new current trains go.

Actually again, I'll recommend you check thor's web site listed above. There's lots of info there that will help get you started.

I'll also add you can use my link here to email me with questions you might have. My layout is 027 track and I operate literally nothing buy lower end product that I modify a great deal. I don't have any extra track, but if you are interested I have cars and probably some buildings and other things I could sell to you very reasonably that would help get you started.

[Kooljock1]

My advice is:

Don't Go Cheap on the Really Important Stuff!

That means don't go cheap on the track. Get track that will be sturdy, switches (turn-outs) that are non-derailing and are not always "powered" when a train is on them, and track that is capable of continuous changing.

Get a transformer capable of running more than just the train you buy. It must have accessory voltage taps separate from the track voltage, and ideally variable too! 80 watts at minimum to start with.

Buy a set with an engine capable of pulling more than the train it comes with.

And most importantly, buy a set. Asd mentioned above, you'll save a ton of cash over what you'd spend for the items separately.

If I were starting over, I'd be sorely tempted by either the Nickel Plate Super Steam Set in the last LIONEL catalog, or the current Santa Fe Super Steam Set.

Good engine, good track, good transformer!

Jon [8D]

[Anonymous]

We all started somewhere, vunder4. I use "RealTrax" which needs to be distinguished from "RealTrack" by Lionel. I am primarily a floor runner, and RealTrax and RealTrack have the advantage of running well on carpet because they have included plastic road bed. But they are both pricey--I paid $3.20 to $3.50 a ten inch section. Quite a premium to keep grease off the carpet, especially if you don't plan to run on carpet.

As for trains, there are literally thousands of choices, from antiques that keep you challenged finding parts to keep them running, to schlock that won't run right out of the box, no matter what you do. Madison must have a hobby shop--why don't you go over there and talk to them. At least that will give you somebody to be mad at if you get ripped off.

I agree that you should start with a set. Most of the manufacturers make starter sets that are quite good, and a real bargain if you add up the prices. At least one manufacturer (MTH) has the philosophy that you don't skimp on starter sets, because a bad experience starting out will convert a rail fan to a fisherman in a heart beat.

[dougdagrump]

The previous posts have both given you some very sound advice. The only thing that I would add is to do a LOT of looking around before you buy anything. If you live in an area where you can visit some train shows or clubs so you have a chance to see some operating layouts this will be an excellent chance for you to get a feeling for what you like, steam or diesel, freight or passenger, point to point or continous operations. These are some of the things you'll need to consider before acquisitions of either sets or individual pieces. But above all else they should be fun. [^]

[Dave Farquhar]

Lots of good advice so far. One way to save a bundle of money is to buy used. My local train shop can always come up with a $40 locomotive for someone on a budget, and some $10 cars to go with it. He usually has a couple of used low-end sets in stock too.

Used tubular track is dirt cheap. As long as it's clean and the pins are tight, there's nothing wrong with it. I can have all of the O27 curves I want for 25 cents per section. Straights are 50 cents--so you can have an oval of track for 5 bucks. K-Line switches have the best reputation for reliability, and they also happen to be the least expensive. Buy new K-Line switches. If you want to run larger trains than standard O27 allows, buy wide-radius O27-profile track and switches. Then you can still take advantage of dirt cheap O27 straights. Recycle your O27 curves for a tight inner loop for running a small train or a trolley.

Check in your phone book (or the phone book for the closest major city) under hobby shops. Pay close attention to display ads that mention Lionel, K-Line, or MTH.

I don't know what your monthly budget is, but you can get something put together buying piece by piece if that's what you have to do. Get cheap O27 stuff to get you started and keep your interest, then upgrade to a better locomotive later.

While I agree that it's nice to have a 75 or 80-watt transformer at minimum, you can always buy a smaller one to get started, then upgrade to a bigger one and use the small transformer for accessories. The postwar Lionel 1033 is a good, reliable choice and you can probably find a rebuilt one for $70. But if you find a vintage O27 set with a smaller transformer, don't worry about it. Use that to start, then upgrade to a 1033 or a CW-80 (the current-production model).

Whatever you do, don't worry. What you're wanting to do is possible.

[Buckeye Riveter]

It is about 5 years ago that I visted a great O Gauge layout in Balboa Park, San Diego while I was waiting to return home from the Rose Bowl. I had been working on an HO layout but after seeing the Lionel layout and thnking about the fond memories for me, the HO layout came to a complete halt and the O Scale layout started to take shape.

I really would suggest you visit a train show where you could see the layouts and most importantly ask the operators questions. Ask questions here on the forum. We don't know everything, most generally we can find out answers from many sources.

Your profile says you live in Madison, Wisconsin. What a great place! Does anybody out there know where vunder4 can see a great layout or two? Big Boy lives too far away from Madison, but Chicago would be a good choice.

And most importantly.....Have fun! As I noted before the cover of CTT Magazine says, "Operating, Collecting, Fun", but it does not say you need to be frustrated.

[Anonymous]

I was in the same position as vunder4 just a few months ago and a couple of things I would do different would be not to use Fastrack on the layout because it is loud especially on plywood and a bit expensive. Some of the good things about it is easy to work with and you don’t need to add ballast to it.
As far as a starter sets go I wi***hat I knew more about the MTH ready to run sets before I bought one. They are more expensive than others but your getting an engine equipped with PS2 including cruise control. I thought I wouldn’t need any type of command system and got the less expensive Lionel set and then two months later purchased an MTH set and plan to get a DCS system now. So look into command systems and try to decide if you want to eventually get one. I can’t speak from experience about the RealTrax in the MTH sets, only that it is expensive as, or more so than Lionel’s FasTrack. I was lucky enough to make a deal with my local hobby shop when I purchased the MTH set to get credit for the track. So maybe you could try that.
As far as that “permission” thing goes that was smart because my wife came home one day and half of the garage was suddenly a train layout. That wasn’t too bad but then she started to complain about the time I spend there and well that still gets a little heated at times!

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Welcome. Have a plan. Size, and scale. New stuff or old, or a mix. First and foremost, buy quality, not quanitity. I mean don't buy just to have an item. Pace yourself. Have fun. Did I say have a plan? Rework is frustrating.

[Anonymous]

I started a small (5x8) layout a month ago. The advice given so far is good...BUT I think a lot depends on the max. size of the layout you are thinking about. For my small one, I decided on FasTrack on a subdued-green tight-pile carpet base. I have 2 ovals, one with a siding, to run 2 trains, passenger steam ane diesel freight. It works for me, but I agree that FasTrack may not be the best choice for a BIG layout. Joe

[Jumijo]

I'm also new and have been learning the ropes the past few months. My limited wisdom to impart is to buy a good starter set with a strong locomotive. I have the New York Central Flyer set by Lionel and it's a very nice set with a strong loco. An even stronger engine can be found in the Polar Express set, also by Lionel. CTT raves about the small Berkshire that is included in that set.

Sets come with all necessary components (engine, cars, track, transformer) all at a substantially lower price than if purchased seperately. Something to keep in mind if you have a budget.

I am currently running trains on a carpeted floor, so I've been using (and adding on) Fastrack and I have to say, aside from the price, it's great for floor runners. No oil stains on the carpet! It looks much more realistic than regular tubular track. If I were to move to a table layout, I'd switch to O27 track in a heartbeat, again, because of price, but also to squeeze a little more layout into a smaller area.

Jim

[jonadel]

vander4 [#welcome] you picked the right forum to ask any question without fear of being put down. My top ten recommendations are:

1. set a monthly budget and stick to it.
2. try to visualize what you want your layout to look like a year from now or 2 years.
3. have a dedicated space for it, free from little hands and animals if possible.
4. table height, make it comfortable for your height and being able to work under it.
5. read, read, read--lots of great material our there for beginners.
6. be patient, there's no one on this forum that built an empire in a year.
7. if you have the $$ buy a starter set, my recommendation--MTH, I'm predjudiced.
8. go slow, do overs are NO FUN!
9. take pics of your monthly progress.
10. try and involve someone with the build, much more fun to work and share the load.

It's a wonderful hobby that brings joy to the builder and the friends that get to see it, I've had lots of hobbies and this one is the THE BEST.

Best of luck and check back often.

Jon
here are album shots of our progress:

http://jands.logicalgeek.com

[Anonymous]

Really impressive layout, Jon. Somebody in Adel must be a woodworker; the tables are really nice. I am just in the planning stages with a couple of ovals on a 4x8 just so I remember that this project is to run trains. I have a question about picture 21. Is the water tower a kit, and if so where can I get it? I need one of that type with those proportions, and I was getting afraid that I was going to have to scratch build it, because I can find the low trackside type, but not that tall city water supply type.

I'm prejudiced toward MTH, too, but I was trying hard not to show it. My wife gave me a 4-4-0 wood burning steamer with four passenger cars in ProtoSound One about six years ago, and I haven't bought anything but what Mike builds since then. Not that I won't, I just haven't.

[laz 57]

VUNDER4,
These giz know what theyre talking about, so all the info is great. Go slow and try things the way you want them to be. Remember if you like it, do it ,you don't have to please anyone but yourself. One more thing and that would be after the starter set, and when you are hooked on the hobby, is to save up and buy the biggest transformer you can. With the more power you have you could run more trains and the all important accessories. And like everyone said have fun its a great hobby.
laz57

[cnw1995]

Wisconsin is a hot-bed of model railroading. Go to a local hobby shop and browse around. Here are hobby shops in Madison, WI from http://www.hobbyretailer.com/ (a sub-site of this URL). I started with a Lionel train set I found on sale for less than $100. Then added 027 track and some other things slowly at Christmas and through birthdays.

DOCKTER'S HOBBYWORLD
402 WESTGATE MALL
MADISON, WI
Ph: 608 274 0024

LAST SQUARE THE
5944 ODANA RD
MADISON, WI
Ph: 608 278 4401

MADISON HOBBY STOP
6622 MINERAL POINT RD
MADISON, WI
Ph: 262 829 3820

R C PERFORMANCE & HOBBIES INC
4702 E BROADWAY
MADISON, WI
Ph: 608 222-8846

[Anonymous]

Welcome,

My Nmae is Nicholas Parker. But everyone calls me by my forum name Bert and Mary Poppins.

I don't want to go into a long description of why that is my forum name, but to put it simply, I really love the movie.

But anyway, if you want lots of space, and wide curves, do a shelf stlye around the room availible. It has room for a double track mainline or more, a few accesories, and if you want addtional sceanes, do what I plan to do..

Make these sceanes o baords that can be removed, and placed on the side of your layout at will.

I plan to go cheap, as all the stuf I like is cheap. I don't like scale models, I like Toy Trains, and this stuf is cheap, so it is good that I have an attraction to cheap, unrealistic trains.

But, I am debating wheather to use Gragraves Scale like track, or good ol' Lionel and K-Line Tubular.

What ever I decide it will be great. But, I hope you enjoy this hobby, and have fun.

Oh, and if you still want the clay hills, you can put them on a corner, and have the tracks run up then down.

HHappy Hobby,

Bert and Mary Poppins aka Nick

[jonadel]

Skyray,

Thanks for the comments. The benchwork is all Sievers out of Wisonconsin, I bit the bullet about that aspect and I've never been sorry especially when I can bolt it together in minutes and then be able to sit or walk on it and it never flexes. The other thing is that if we ever move it's all modular and will work in any size room since it's so adaptable. The water tower in pic 21 is an MTH and has a nice strobe light on the top.

Getting back to benchwork. I have most of the power tools to scratch build benchwork but it does become a time issue and at that time I was still working, pre retirement. The other thing I like is that Sievers will send you a template of their sizes and you photocopy those and then cut them and place them on a table and work out the details of your room before ordering. It's pretty slick but not cheap, but I'd do the same thing today.

Trains & operating system--MTH for me with DCS. I have added one of Walts Trolley's and a Christmas Beep, very easy to use with MTH, I'm glad I went slow and waited for DCS. It's so easy to use and very user friendly.

Jon

[FJ and G]

welcome to forum,

Guess you already got a lot of good advice so nothing to add.

[underworld]

Hello, Dave Farquhar has good advice about considering used equipment. Some of the best stuff I've got has been used. A lot of money can also be saved by scratch building structures (and rolling stock). Also you can end up with very original buildings this way. Most materials are fairly inexpensive, plus there are many household "throw away" items that can be used in scratch building.
Good Luck!

underworld

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